Scientists make malaria breakthrough

European scientists have identified a new way to stop malaria in its tracks. They could stop the parasite from infecting the mosquito that spreads the disease.

Researchers are working on prophylactics, vaccines, mosquito eradication programs and preventive measures such as nets.

In 2002, scientists completed the entire DNA sequences of the Anopheles mosquito and the plasmodium parasite that it carries, in the hope genetic research might open new avenues.

Now a team from the European Molecular Biology Laboratory in Heidelberg report in the US journal Science that they have homed in on four mosquito proteins that affect the ability of the malaria parasite to survive in its host.